Sports training-device

ABSTRACT

A sports training-device ( 100 ) comprising: a base ( 102 ); a retainer ( 104 ) for retaining a ball ( 106 ); and a flexible tether ( 108 ), a first end of the flexible tether attached to said base, and a second end of the flexible tether attached to said retainer; said flexible tether configured to, in use, provide damped movement of a ball retained in said retainer, following application of a force to said ball.

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates to a sports training-device. Moreparticularly, the present invention relates to a device for trainingusers to perform “keep-ups” with a ball, such as a football.

“Keep-ups”, or “keepy-uppy”, is a footballing skill whereby a playerattempts to keep a ball active or moving in the air without letting theball touch the ground. Typically the player will do this by juggling theball between their feet. More advanced players may also use their knees,head and shoulders.

Performing keep-ups can be a difficult skill to master, in particularfor young children who have not fully developed their motor skills andcoordination. An inability to perform keep-ups can cause players, inparticular children, to become frustrated. Being able to performkeep-ups is considered one of the building blocks in training a footballplayer, and therefore a lack of proficiency in this skill can result inplayers prematurely giving up the sport.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

Accordingly in a first aspect there is provided a sports training-devicecomprising: a base; a retainer for retaining a ball; and a flexibletether, a first end of the flexible tether attached to said base, and asecond end of the flexible tether attached to said retainer; saidflexible tether configured to, in use, provide damped movement of a ballretained in said retainer, following application of a force to saidball.

According to some embodiments, the retainer has a rest position when noforce is applied to said ball.

According to some embodiments, said damped movement comprises movementof said ball under a force of gravity.

According to some embodiments, said damped movement comprises one ormore of: movement of said ball away from said rest position, in responseto said applied force; return movement of said ball towards said restposition.

According to some embodiments, the device comprises means for detectinga striking of the ball by a user.

According to some embodiments, said means comprises a microphone fordetecting a sound of the user striking the ball.

According to some embodiments, said microphone is comprised in saidretainer.

According to some embodiments, said tether comprises an electricalconnector for electrically connecting said microphone to circuitry insaid base.

According to some embodiments, the device comprises a display to displayinformation to a user.

According to some embodiments, said information comprises one or moreof: a count of keep-ups performed by a user; time elapsed; timeremaining.

According to some embodiments, said retainer is configured to enablesaid ball to spin within said retainer.

According to some embodiments, said retainer comprises a band configuredto conform to an outer profile of said ball.

According to some embodiments, said band comprises a first endattachable to a first location on said ball, and a second end attachableto a second location on said ball, a straight line between said firstand second locations coinciding with a central axis of said ball.

According to some embodiments, said flexible tether provides a directconnection between said base and said retainer.

According to some embodiments, said flexible tether comprises a coresection.

According to some embodiments, said flexible tether comprises a sheathportion substantially surrounding said core section.

According to some embodiments, the sports training device comprises amechanism enabling an exit angle of said flexible tether from said baseto be varied.

According to some embodiments, said base comprises a socket.

According to some embodiments, said flexible tether is attachable tosaid base via a plug connector insertable into said socket.

According to some embodiments, said plug connector is insertable in saidsocket in at least two orientations.

According to some embodiments, said base comprises two or more sockets,each socket for receiving said tether.

According to some embodiments, said ball comprises a football.

In a second aspect there is provided a method comprising: usingsound-detecting means to detect a sound caused by a user striking a ballattached to a sports training device; and using the detected sound todetermine a number of times the user strikes the ball.

According to some embodiments, the ball is a football and the methodcomprises determining a number of keep-ups performed by the user.

According to some embodiments, the sound-detecting means comprises amicrophone.

In a third aspect there is provided a sports training-device comprising:a base; a retainer for retaining a ball; and a tether, a first end ofsaid tether attached to said base, and a second end of said tetherattached to said retainer; wherein said retainer comprises a mechanismfor rotatably mounting said ball within said retainer.

According to some embodiments, said retainer comprises a first endhaving a first location attachable to a first region on said ball, and asecond end having a second location attachable to a second region onsaid ball, a straight line between said first and second locationsdefining an axis, wherein said mechanism is configured to allow saidball to rotate about said axis, when said ball is attached to saidretainer.

According to some embodiments, said first and second locations of saidretainer comprise respective first and second rotatable cups.

According to some embodiments, said first and second rotatable cupscomprise an adhesive surface for attachment to said ball.

According to some embodiments, said first and second rotatable cups areattached to their respective first and second locations with respectivefirst and second bearings.

According to some embodiments, said axis is parallel to a plane of saidbase, when said ball is in a rest position.

According to some embodiments, when in a rest position, said tetherextends from said base in a first direction away from said base, whereinsaid axis perpendicular to said first direction.

According to some embodiments, said tether is flexible.

According to some embodiments, said flexible tether configured to, inuse, provide damped movement of a ball retained in said retainer,following application of a force to said ball.

According to a fourth aspect there is provided a sports training-devicesubstantially as described herein with respect to the accompanyingFigures.

According to a fifth aspect there is provided a ball-retainer for asports training device comprising: a first end having a first locationattachable to a first region on a ball, and a second end having a secondlocation attachable to a second region on said ball, a straight linebetween said first and second locations defining an axis, wherein saidmechanism is configured to allow said ball to rotate about said axis,when said ball is attached to said retainer.

According to some embodiments, said first and second locations of saidretainer comprise respective first and second rotatable cups.

According to some embodiments, said first and second rotatable cupscomprise an adhesive surface for attachment to said ball.

According to some embodiments, said first and second rotatable cups areattached to is their respective first and second locations withrespective first and second bearings.

According to a sixth aspect there is provided a ball-retainer for asports training device substantially as described herein with respect tothe accompanying Figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a sports training-device according to anembodiment;

FIG. 2 is a side-view of a sports training-device according to anembodiment;

FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective-view of a sports training-deviceaccording to an embodiment;

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a retainer according to anembodiment;

FIG. 5 is a sectional view of a ball-retainer according to anembodiment;

FIGS. 6 to 8 show how the orientation of a tether of the sportstraining-device can be changed;

FIG. 9 demonstrates two different orientation angles for the tether;

FIG. 10 shows the underside of a sports training-device according to anembodiment;

FIGS. 11 and 12 are cross-sectional views of a tether according to anembodiment;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a sports training-device according toan embodiment;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a sports training-device according toan embodiment;

FIG. 15 is a sectional view of a ball-retainer according to anembodiment;

FIGS. 16A and 16B are cross-sectional views of a tether according to anembodiment;

FIG. 17 is a sectional view of a sports training-device according to anembodiment;

FIG. 18 is an exploded perspective view of a sports training-deviceaccording to an embodiment;

FIG. 19 shows the underside of a sports training-device according to anembodiment;

FIG. 20 is a schematic view of some electrical components of a sportstraining-device according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Some embodiments will now be described in more detail to assist thereader in understanding the invention, the scope of which is defined bythe appended claims. It should be noted that the Figures are notnecessarily drawn to scale.

FIG. 1 shows a sports training-device 100 according to an embodiment.The sports training-device 100 comprises a base 102, and a retainer orholder 104 for retaining or holding a ball 106. The retainer 104 isconnected to the base 102 with a tether 108. In this embodiment thetether 108 comprises a flexible material, so as to provide a flexibletether. The flexible tether is described in more detail below (see inparticular FIGS. 11 and 12). In this embodiment the flexible tether 108is attached to the retainer 104 by a coupling 110. In this embodimentthe coupling 110 also comprises a flexible material.

The base 102 may be formed from a plastic material. The base 102comprises a top surface 112, a base surface 114, and at least one side116 extending between the base surface 114 and the top surface 112. Thebase surface 114, top surface 112, and side 116 together define a hollowinterior cavity of the base. The hollow interior cavity can be accessedby removing plug 118, to reveal an opening or inlet into the hollowinterior of the base 102. The interior cavity can then be filled, orpartially filled, with water or sand or another weighted material toweigh down the base and provide stability to the device in use.

The retainer or holder 104, which is described in more detail in FIG. 4,is adapted to attach to the ball 106 at a first location 120 and asecond location 122. A straight line between the first location 120 andthe second location 122 defines an axis X-X, about which the ball 106can rotate. In some embodiments the ball is removable from the retainer104. In the embodiment of FIG. 1 the ball 106 comprises a stripe 124which enables a user (or user's coach) to clearly see when the ball isspinning, and at what rate. In other embodiments the stripe 124 could bereplaced with another indicator means, for example a series ofhorizontal lines or stripes parallel to the X-X axis. This enables aplayer to develop more advanced keep-up skills, such as being able toselectively spin the ball in a forward or reverse direction. When thedevice is at rest, the X-X axis is substantially parallel to a plane ofan underside of the base 102, or in other words parallel to a plane of aflat surface upon which the base is placed. The is flexible tether 108extends outwardly and rearwardly from the base 102, in a direction asshown by arrow Y in FIG. 1. The axis X-X is perpendicular to thedirection of arrow Y.

The flexible tether 108 is sufficiently flexible to enable the ball tomove in three dimensions, in accordance with a force applied to the ballby a player. The ball can move in all three dimensions simultaneously,if a suitable force is so applied. For example the ball can move fromleft to right (i.e. in the direction of axis X-X), and towards and awayfrom the base (i.e. in the direction of arrow Y), and up and down (i.e.in the direction of arrow Z). Whilst having sufficient flexibility inorder to enable these movements, the flexible tether 108 also has astiffness sufficient to cause damping, or slowing down, of the ball'smovements. The flexible tether 108 may in particular have a stiffnesswhich slows down the recovery or return speed of the ball, whenreturning in a direction towards the ground under the force of gravity.This slows down the return rate of the ball following an applied forceand gives a player more time to be able to react when attemptingkeep-ups. In some embodiments the flexible tether is formed from aplastic material

FIG. 2 shows a side view of the sports training-device 100. In thisFigure a player's foot 126 is schematically shown. From this Figure itcan be more fully appreciated how the flexible tether 108 controls thespeed of movement of the ball 106, in particular in the up-and-down Zdirection, thus giving a user more time between consecutive kicks in aseries of keep-ups. From FIG. 2 it can also be appreciated that thetether can flex in a manner that allows the ball 106 to move towards andaway from the base in the direction of arrow Y.

FIG. 3 shows an exploded view of components of the sportstraining-device 100. As shown in FIG. 3, the base 102 comprises an inlet119 through which water, sand, or another weighted material can bepoured into the base. The plug 118 is operable to close off the inlet119. To this end the plug 118 may be in the form of a cap having athreaded inner wall which can screw on to a corresponding thread on aportion of the inlet 119. The base also comprises non-slip portions 128to stop the base from slipping relative to the ground, when in use. Thenon-slip portions 128 may be a separate item from the base 102, or maybe attached to the base, for example with an adhesive. Whilst threenon-slip portions are shown in FIG. 3, it will of course be understoodthat any number may be provided (including a single portion). The base102 also comprises a “skin” or label 130, attachable to the top surface112 of the base. The skin 130 may provide a protective coating to thebase. The skin may also be branded or colour coordinated, for example torepresent the colours of a particular football team or to display thecrest of a football team. In some embodiments the label 130 may compriseseveral or any number of labels.

The flexible tether 108 is attachable to a tether plug 132. The tetherplug 132 comprises an aperture 134 into which a first end 107 of thetether 108 can be inserted. The tether can then be attached to thetether plug 132, for example by screwing it in place, or any otherattachment means such as a friction fit, snap fit, adhesives etc. Inthis embodiment the tether plug 132 comprises clips 135 and 136. Theclips 135 and 136 enable the tether plug 132 to snap-fit into anaperture or socket 138 in the base. The aperture 138 comprises recessedregions 140 and 142 which enable a user to squeeze the clips 135 and 136to disengage the snap-fit connection when they want to remove the tetherplug 132 from the base (this is explained in more detail with respect toFIGS. 6 to 8). In some embodiments the aperture 138 is a through holeextending through to a corresponding opening on the underside 114 of thebase 102. In other embodiments the aperture 138 comprises a blind-hole.In this embodiment the aperture 138 is entirely separate from the inlet119 i.e. the hollow interior cavity of the base 102 cannot be accessedvia the aperture 138.

The flexible tether 108 also comprises a second end 109 attachable tothe retainer 104. In this embodiment the second end 109 of the flexibletether 108 is attachable to the retainer 104 via the coupling 110.Fixings 144 and 146 may be provided for attaching the coupling 110 tothe retainer 104 and the flexible tether 108. In another embodiment (notshown), the flexible tether 108 can be attached directly to the retainer104, without the need for the intermediate coupling 110. The retainer104 is described in more detail with respect to FIG. 4.

FIG. 4 shows the retainer 104 in more detail. In this embodiment theretainer 104 is generally in the shape of a head-band. The retainer 104comprises a main body portion 148. The main body portion 148 is curvedbetween a first end 150 and a second end 152, such that the retainer 104is profiled to conform to the outer profile of a ball. The retainer 104comprises a connecting portion 154, which enables the retainer 104 to beconnected to the flexible tether 108 via the coupling 110. The retainer104 also comprises strengthening ribs 156 to increase the strength ofthe retainer whilst minimising weight. The ribs 156 also act to minimisefinger traps.

The first and second ends 150 and 152 of the retainer are enlargedcompared to the rest of the main body portion 148. The first end 150comprises a saucer or cup 158 comprising an upstanding bush 160 on aninterior surface thereof. A bearing 164 is configured for rotatablyattaching the cup 158 to the first end 150 of the retainer 104. The cup158 is also held in place with a bolt and washer arrangement 166. Anend-cap 168 covers this assembly. In this embodiment ribs 170 of theend-cap 168 snap fit into corresponding apertures 172 in the retainer104. The same arrangement is also provided on the second end 152 of theretainer 104.

FIG. 5 is a sectional view through the retainer 104. The cup 158,bearing 164, end cap 168 and bolt and washer arrangement 166 can all beviewed from this Figure. The connector 154 and coupling 110 are alsovisible in this Figure. The bearing arrangement and selected plasticmaterial enable the cups to dynamically flex and/or pivot for compliancewith the ball. This may help with assembly/disassembly of the ball tothe retainer 104. According to some embodiments, the retainer 104 isdimensioned such that when in a rest configuration (with no ballattached), a distance A between the first and second ends 150 and 152 isslightly less than a maximum diameter of a standard football (forexample a FIFA inspected size #4 football). In embodiments the retainer104 is formed from a resilient plastic, so that the first and secondends 150 and 152 can be pulled apart slightly in order to enable afootball to be attached thereto. Once inserted, the first and secondends 150 and 152 then slightly squeeze the football in order to hold itin place. When the football is removed, the first and second ends canthen return to their normal rest position. In some embodiments, the cups158 can be coated in a permanent or semi-permanent adhesive to stick theball 106 to the retainer, or any other adhesive arrangement can be used(e.g. Velcro). In another embodiment (not shown), a specially designedball with a centrally located axle can be provided that locates intocorresponding bearings in the retainer, so that the ball can berotatably attached thereto.

FIGS. 6 to 8 show a process of rotating the orientation of the tetherplug 132 within the base 102. FIG. 6 shows that the tether plug 132 hasbeen lifted out of the aperture 138.

As shown in FIG. 7 the tether plug 132 can then be rotated through 180°,as shown by the arrow B.

FIG. 8 shows the tether plug 132 after it has been rotated through 180°with respect to the orientation shown in FIGS. 6 and 7. The tether plug132 can then be reinserted into the aperture 138.

An effect of altering the orientation of the tether plug 132 isdemonstrated by viewing FIG. 9. The solid lines show the position of thetether 108, retainer 104, and ball 106, when the first end 107 of thetether exits the base 102 proximate to a front end 101 of the base (e.g.the orientation shown in FIG. 1).

The dashed lines show the positions of the tether 108, retainer 104, andball 106 when the tether plug is in the opposite orientation and thefirst end 107 of the tether exits the base 102 further back from thefront end 101 of the base i.e. closer to a rear end 103 of the base(e.g. after insertion in the orientation of FIG. 8).

The aperture 138 for receiving the tether plug 132 is angled (in thisembodiment it is angled towards a user) so that altering the orientationof the tether plug alters the angle at which the flexible tether 108exits the base 102. The exit angle of the tether affects the flight ofthe ball, at least in part due to the affect this angle has on thebending stresses in the flexible tether. The exit angle also affects thedifficulty of performing keep-ups and therefore enables a user toprogress from an easier orientation to a harder orientation. Accordingto this embodiment two different tether exit angles, and therefore twodifferent difficulty settings, are shown. It will of course beappreciated that any number of tether exit angles can be provided, andalso the means for altering the exit angle are not limited to areversible tether plug.

In the first orientation (i.e. solid lines) the tether exit angle α isapproximately 75°. In this orientation, a rest position of the ball 106is a distance X₁ above the ground. The ball is therefore close enough tothe ground in its rest position such that a player can also learn theskills required to chip the ball off the ground to begin a set ofkeep-ups. In some embodiments the ball may be in contact with the groundwhen in its rest position.

In the second orientation (shown with dotted lines), the exit angle ofthe tether is approximately 90° i.e. vertical or approximately verticalwith respect to the ground. The rest position of the ball 106 is adistance X₂ above the ground. As can be seen in FIG. 9, the distance X₂is greater than X₁. This enables a player to begin a keep up sessionwithout having to learn the skill of chipping the ball off the ground.In some embodiments the ball may be in contact with the ground when inits rest position.

The exit angle may also affect the damping rate of the flexible tether108. In the second orientation (dotted lines), the damping rate (i.e.the rate at which the tether damps or slows down the movement of theball) is greater than the damping rate of when the tether 108 is in thefirst orientation. This may be particularly so with respect to the forceof gravity. Therefore when the tether is in the second orientation theball 106 moves at a slower rate following input of an applied force,which makes it easier for a player to perform multiple keep-ups.Therefore the first orientation (solid lines) may be considered a“difficult” setting, and the second orientation (dotted lines) may beconsidered an “easy” setting.

The “easy” or “beginner” difficulty position may be suitable for lowerage range players, such as those in the 4 to 7 year old age bracket. Thebeginner difficulty position gives the player more time to react priorto each keep up, and affords more time to adjust the player's bodyposition for the next keep up, allowing for wayward kicks at a lowerskill level. There is also a lower frequency between kicks, whichenables a user to focus on learning the correct technique. In thebeginner difficulty position there may also be less of a focus on theaerobic workout and fitness level.

In the “difficult” or “advanced” setting, there is reduced aid from thetether. This may be suitable for upper age range players, such as thoseaged 8 years and over, as it requires a higher skill level. In thedifficult setting faster reactions are required between each keep-up,and there is less time for the player to adjust their body positionbetween each keep-up, therefore requiring greater accuracy for eachkick. The higher frequency between kicks requires the user to focus onusing the correct technique whilst performing a more demanding exercise.Thus there is a higher focus on aerobic workout and fitness level, and agreater challenge and reward for higher skill users.

As discussed previously, in the difficult setting the rest position ofthe football may be on the ground or only just above the ground, whichfocuses the user on learning the correct technique to get the ball offthe ground for an initial keep-up. There is also increased difficulty ifthe user miss-hits the ball, and needs to re-start from the restingposition.

The resting position of the ball in the easy setting is higher off theground, as shown in FIG. 9. Therefore a user may not have to chip theball off the ground to start the keep up session, and in someembodiments the device is configured such that the ball will not touchthe ground during a set of keep-ups (if a typical force is applied),therefore inspiring confidence in the player.

In some embodiments the length of exposed tether 108 outside the base102 may be adjusted. This may increase/decrease the mechanical aid ofthe tether, therefore increasing or reducing the difficulty level. Thismay also enable a user can vary the resting position of the ball 106above the ground. Adjusting the amount of exposed tether may beachieved, for example, by varying an amount inserted in to the tetherplug 132.

FIG. 10 shows an underside of the sports training-device 100. From thisFigure it can be seen how the aperture 138 extends through the base toan opening on the underside of the base. The distal end of the first end107 of the tether 108 is visible through this aperture 138. Also shownin FIG. 10 is a handle portion 174. The handle portion 174 isergonomically designed and makes it easy for a user to carry the device100.

The flexible tether is shown in more detail with respect to FIG. 11.FIG. 11 shows a portion of the flexible tether 108. According to thisembodiment, the flexible tether 108 include a core-section 176. The coresection 176 is configured to be relatively stiff, and providesresilience to the tether 108. The core section 176 may be formed from ametal. Alternatively the core section 176 may be formed from nylon of asuitably stiff grade. The core section can of course be made from anymaterial having the required stiffness and mechanical properties. Inthis embodiment the core section 176 is of a rectangular cross-section,although of course other shapes and/or forms are available. Surroundingthe core section 176 is a cover or outer sheath 178, covering the coresection 176. The cover material 178 may be a flexible, UV stableelastomer or rubber. In some embodiments the core section 176 isover-moulded with the flexible covering material 178. The materials ofthe core section 176 and cover 178 are selected such that the tether 108has sufficient flexibility and strength in compression, tension, bendingand twist to enable the tether to move in any direction according to thedirection in which the ball 106 has been kicked, without breaking. Insome embodiments the materials of the core section 176 and cover 178 areselected to provide sufficient resilience to cause a tethered ball toreturn to its rest position, after the ball has been kicked. Hysteresis,creep resistance and non-temperature sensitivity may also becharacteristics of the tether.

FIG. 12 shows a sectional view of the flexible tether 108. As shown inthis Figure the stiff core 176 has a width of approximately 15 mm, and aheight of approximately 4 mm. The flexible outer sheath 178 has a widthof approximately 35 mm, and a height of approximately 15 mm.

It will of course be appreciated that this is by way of example only andthat the flexible tether 108 can be of a different construction. Forexample the flexible tether 108 may be formed from a unitary piece ofmaterial having the requisite qualities, without separate core andsheath sections.

According to some embodiments the flexible tether is interchangeablewith one or more other flexible tethers, of the same or varyingstiffnesses. For example a user might want to change the tether after aperiod of time as part of maintenance of the device. A user may alsowant to exchange a tether for a more flexible or stiffer one in order todecrease or increase the difficulty.

Embodiments of the present invention may facilitate the learning ofcorrect keep-up technique. As shown in some of the Figures, the flexibletether may comprise a direct connection between the base 102 and theretainer 104. The tether plug 132 may in some embodiments be part of thetether 108, or the tether plug 132 may alternatively be part of the base102. The coupling 110 may in some embodiments be part of the flexibletether 108, or the coupling 110 may be part of the retainer 104. In someembodiments one or more of these items could be integrally formed witheach other. Therefore even where the coupling 110 and tether plug 132are present, the flexible tether 108 may still be considered to providea direct flexible connection between the base 102 and the retainer 104and/or ball 106. That is in some embodiments it may be considered thatthere is no rigid connection between the base 102 and the ball 106. Theflexible connection provides a more realistic keep-up “feel” to the usersince the ball can move in any direction as a result of the direction inwhich the ball has been kicked. That is some embodiments give the feelof practicing keep-ups with an untethered ball, whilst stillcompensating to some degree for mistakes. Therefore although the effectsof miss-kicks and incorrect technique may be mitigated by the device100, the user may still be made aware when they are not using correcttechnique and therefore can learn to make the necessary corrections. Thestripe 124 shown on the ball 106 in FIG. 1 also helps to ensure correctkeep up technique. As the user strikes the ball, the ball will spin inthe retainer 104, and the flexible tether 108 may move and rotate. Theplayer may aim to keep the stripe straight and perpendicular tothemselves, therefore encouraging correct technique.

It will of course be understood that various modifications may be made.For example the flexible tether 108 and flexible coupling 110 may beintegrally formed. Likewise the coupling 110 may be integrally formedwith the retainer 104. That is in one embodiment the tether 108 isdirectly attached to the retainer 104 as one piece. In an embodiment thetether 108 is attachable to the base 102 in one orientation only. Insuch an embodiment the flexible tether 108 may be permanently attachedto the base. In some embodiments the base, tether, retainer, and ballare easily detachable from each other. This facilitates packaging andstorage of the device.

The described embodiments with the changeable orientation of the tetherplug allow a user to quickly and easily change the difficulty setting,without having to add any further weights or parts to the device. Inother embodiments the means for changing the orientation and/or exitangle of the tether may differ. For example, a ratchet mechanism mayenable the angle of the tether to be altered between a number of angles,without having to remove the tether from the base.

The tether angle could also, in some embodiments, be configured toenable a two-player game of keep-ups, for example where the two playersstand on directly opposing sides of the base.

In one embodiment, the ball-retainer or ball-holder 104 could beattached to said base via at least one rigid connection (for example toallow the user to concentrate on spinning the ball). In anotherembodiment the ball may be prevented from spinning in the retainer 104(for example to allow the user to concentrate on the keep-up aspect).The retainer 104 may be configurable to selectively enable and preventspinning of the ball (for example by enabling a user to selectivelyunlock and lock the cups 158).

In some embodiments a counter and/or timing user interface (UI) systemcan be included. This could for example include a sensor which countsthe number of keep-ups, and/or the amount of time for which the user hasbeen playing. In some embodiments such user interface could be accessedthrough an application on a user's computing device, such as a mobilephone. Also, intelligent electronic sensors and software may be providedto measure ball movement in space e.g. number and direction ofrotations. The base unit 102 may also comprise a display (such as an LCDor OLED display) to feedback relevant information to the user, such asthe number of keep-ups achieved, time spent playing, number of rotationsof the ball etc. Such a display is shown at 117 in FIG. 1.

In some embodiments, detection means are provided for detecting a numberof times that a user strikes the ball. Striking could be by way ofkicking, heading, kneeing etc. The detection means can therefore be usedto detect a number of keep ups performed by a user. In embodiments,sound-detecting means is provided so that sound signals caused by a userstriking the ball can be detected. In some embodiments thesound-detecting means comprises a microphone. These sound signals canthen be converted into electrical signals which are detected bycircuitry in the sports training device, so as to count a number of keepups. Furthermore a display means can be provided to output informationto be viewed by a user, such as (by way of non-limiting example) a countof the number of keep ups; time elapsed; time remaining.

This is explained in more detail with respect to FIGS. 13 to 20.

FIG. 13 shows a sports training device 1300. Features of the sportstraining device 1300 can be combined with features of the sportstraining device 100 shown in the earlier Figures in any appropriatemanner, and vice versa. For conciseness some of the features in commonwith the previously described embodiments are not repeated in detailwith respect to the subsequent Figures, but it will be understood thatthey can be incorporated therein.

The sports training device 1300 comprises a base 1302, a retainer orholder 1304 for holding a ball 1306. The retainer 1304 is connectable tothe base 1302 with a tether 1308. As per the earlier embodiments thetether 1308 is a flexible tether. The flexible tether 1308 comprises aplug 1332 which is insertable into socket or aperture 1338 or 1339. Theangle at which the tether exits the base is dependent upon which socketthe tether has been inserted into, thus allowing for varying degrees ofdifficulty. In this embodiment the socket 1338 allows for an easierlevel of difficulty, and the socket 1339 allows for a harder level ofdifficulty. Therefore it will be understood that two or more sockets maybe provided for receiving the tether. Each socket is configured toprovide a differing degree of difficulty when the tether is pluggedtherein.

In this embodiment, a microphone (not visible in FIG. 13) is provided inthe retainer 1304. A conductive cable or wire is connected to themicrophone, and passes through the tether 1308 to terminate at a malephono jack 1333. The male phono jack 1333 can attach to a complementaryfemale phono socket in the base 1302 (explained in more detail withrespect to FIG. 17).

The sockets 1338 and 1339 each comprise hinged and sprung loaded doorswhich open when a force is applied thereto, such as the force of theplug 1332 being pressed against the door. These doors prevent dust andother contaminants from entering the base 1302 when the tether is notattached.

The base 1302 further comprises a display region 1317. The displayregion 1317 comprises display portion 1321 and input region 1323. Viathe input region 1323 a user can select or change settings or navigate amenu displayed on the display 1321. The input region 1323 may comprise ahardware keyboard. In other embodiments the input region 1323 may bepart of a touch screen. The display 1321 may be an LED or LCD display,or any other type of display.

FIG. 14 shows the sports training device 1300 when the plug 1332 (andconsequently flexible tether 1308) has been inserted into socket 1338.

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional diagram through the ball retainer 1304. Theretainer 1304 comprises a region 1305 in which is located a microphone1311. In some embodiments the region 1305 comprises an aperture whichenables the microphone 1311 to pick up noise external to the retainermore easily. The microphone 1311 is attached to a cable or wire 1313which passes through the tether 1308. This is shown in more detail inFIG. 16A which shows the tether 1308. The microphone is shown at 1311and the cable is shown at 1313. The end of the cable 1313 whichprotrudes from the tether 1308 at the end opposite from the microphone1311 is attachable to male phono jack 1333. FIG. 16B is a drawing incross-section through the tether 1308. This shows the cable 1313, aswell as core section 1376.

FIG. 17 is a sectional drawing through the sports training device 1300.In this Figure the plug 1332 and consequently tether 1308 are connectedinto socket 1338. It can be appreciated from this Figure that the socket1338 further comprises a female phono socket 1335 at a bottom of thesocket 1338. The socket 1339 comprises a female phono socket 1337. Thefemale phono socket 1335 comprises an electrical terminal 1341 forelectrically connecting to male phono jack 1333. Likewise female phonosocket 1337 comprising an electrical terminal 1343 for electricallyconnecting to male phono jack 1333. In this way audio signals can besent from the female phono socket(s) to appropriate circuitry forprocessing the sound signals and outputting information on the display1317. Appropriate connection means are provided (not shown in FIG. 17)for connecting the phono sockets to the circuitry.

FIG. 18 is an exploded view of the sports training device 1300. As shownin this. Figure the base 1302 comprises an aperture 1380 for receivingcomponents of the sports training device 1300. Also shown is a batterypack 1382 and a battery cover 1384, for enabling batteries to beinserted into the base 1302, for example to power the electricalcomponents such as the display 1317 and necessary circuitry. In otherembodiments any kind of power source can be used, and/or a connector forconnecting to mains power may be provided.

FIG. 19 shows an underside of the sports training device 1300. ThisFigure shows battery cover 1384 and non-slip portions 1328.

FIG. 20 is a schematic overview according to an embodiment. FIG. 20shows a microphone 2011 attached to circuitry 2015 via means forconducting electrical signals 2013. The circuitry 2015 in thisembodiment comprises a memory 2023 and a processor 2025. Together thememory 2023 and processor 2025 can store and process signals receivedfrom the microphone 2011 i.e. a sound of the user kicking the ball. Byprocessing the signals the circuitry 2015 can determine how many times auser has kicked the ball. Information can then be read out to the useron display 2017. For example the display 2017 can display to the userhow many keep ups they have managed. The memory 2023 can also store andrecall such information for future use. For example the memory 2023 canstore information such as high scores which one or more users can thenaim to beat.

In some embodiments a dock is provided to enable a user to connect theirsmart phone or any other user equipment to the sports training device.This may be in addition to or may replace the display 2017. In someembodiments the sports training device can communicate wirelessly with auser's electronic device such as mobile phone, tablet, PC etc.

It will of course be understood that the embodiments have been describedby way of example only, and that variations are envisaged which arewithin the scope of the appended claims. For example in some embodimentsthe microphone can be placed elsewhere on the sports training device,rather than in the retainer 1304. Nevertheless the retainer 1304 may bea suitable position for the microphone, as this is in the vicinity is ofthe ball 1306 and may therefore reduce the chances of incorrect countingdue to detecting noises other than the ball being struck. In someembodiments the circuitry may be configured to detect between differenttypes of sound. For example the microphone and circuitry may be able todistinguish between the sound of the ball being struck by a user, andthe sound of the ball hitting the ground. For example, if it is detectedthat the ball has hit the ground then the counter can be restarted.

In some embodiments wired connections may be replaced by wirelessconnections. In such embodiments appropriate transmitters and receiversare provided. Where male ends and female sockets have been described,these can of course be reversed. For example the male phono jack 1333can be replaced with a female socket, which would receive acorresponding male phono jack in the base of the sports training device.

In some embodiments the microphone and circuitry can be calibrated so asto be able to distinguish between the sound of the ball being struck andother external sounds. This calibration can take place at a time ofmanufacture and/or assembly of the device, and/or at any time by a user.

Whilst the term “football” has been used, the term “soccer” or “soccerball” may equally be used. Also the sports device may be configured toattach a different type of ball other than a soccer or football, such asa rugby ball. The base 102 of the device can also be placed on a raisedplatform to enable a user to practice keep-ups with the knee, head,shoulder etc.

It is noted that while the above describes exemplifying embodiments,there are several variations and modifications which may be made withoutdeparting from the scope of the present invention. For example featuresfrom different embodiments can be combined in any appropriate fashion.

1. A sports training-device comprising: a base; a retainer for retaininga ball; and a flexible tether, a first end of the flexible tetherattached to said base, and a second end of the flexible tether attachedto said retainer; said flexible tether configured to, in use, providedamped movement of a ball retained in said retainer, followingapplication of a force to said ball; wherein said retainer is configuredto enable said ball to spin within said retainer; wherein said retainercomprises a band configured to conform to an outer profile of said ball;and wherein said band comprises a first end attachable to a firstlocation on said ball, and a second end attachable to a second locationon said ball, a straight line between said first and second endsconfigured to coincide with a central axis of said ball.
 2. The sportstraining-device of claim 1, said retainer having a rest position when noforce is applied to said ball.
 3. The sports training-device of claim 2,wherein said damped movement comprises movement of said ball under aforce of gravity.
 4. The sports training-device of claim 2, wherein saiddamped movement comprises one or more of: movement of said ball awayfrom said rest position, in response to said applied force; returnmovement of said ball towards said rest position.
 5. The sportstraining-device of claim 1, comprising means for detecting a striking ofthe ball by a user, wherein said means comprises a microphone fordetecting a sound of the user striking the ball.
 6. (canceled)
 7. Thesports training-device of claim 5, wherein said microphone is comprisedin said retainer, wherein said tether comprises an electrical connectorfor electrically connecting said microphone to circuitry in said base.8. (canceled)
 9. The sports training-device of claim 1, comprising adisplay to display information to a user, wherein said informationcomprises one or more of: a count of keep-ups performed by a user; timeelapsed; time remaining. 10-13. (canceled)
 14. The sportstraining-device of claim 1, wherein said flexible tether provides adirect connection between said base and said retainer.
 15. The sportstraining-device of claim 1, wherein said flexible tether comprises acore section, wherein said flexible tether comprises a sheath portionsubstantially surrounding said core section.
 16. (canceled)
 17. Thesports training-device of claim 1, comprising a mechanism enabling anexit angle of said flexible tether from said base to be varied.
 18. Thesports training-device of claim 1, wherein said base comprises a socket,wherein said flexible tether is attachable to said base via a plugconnector insertable into said socket, wherein said plug connector isinsertable in said socket in at least two orientations.
 19. (canceled)20. (canceled)
 21. The sports training-device of claim 1, wherein saidbase comprises two or more sockets, each socket for receiving saidtether.
 22. The sports training-device of claim 1, wherein said ballcomprises a football. 23-33. (canceled)
 34. A ball-retainer for a sportstraining device comprising: a band configured to conform to an outerprofile of a ball; wherein the ball-retainer is configured to retainsaid ball; wherein said ball-retainer is configured to enable said ballto spin within said ball-retainer; wherein said band comprises a firstend having a first location attachable to a first region of said ball,and a second end having a second location attachable to a second regionof said ball, wherein a straight line between said first and secondlocations is configured to coincide with a central axis of said ball.35. The ball-retainer of claim 34, wherein said first and secondlocations of said retainer comprise respective first and secondrotatable cups.
 36. The ball-retainer of claim 35, wherein said firstand second rotatable cups comprise an adhesive surface for attachment tosaid ball.
 37. The ball-retainer of claim 35, wherein said first andsecond rotatable cups are attached to their respective first and secondlocations with respective first and second bearings.
 38. The sportstraining-device of claim 1, wherein said first and second ends compriserespective first and second rotatable cups.
 39. The sportstraining-device of claim 38, wherein said first and second rotatablecups comprise an adhesive surface for attachment to said ball.
 40. Thesports training-device of claim 38, wherein said first and secondrotatable cups are attached to their respective first and second endswith respective first and second bearings.